Luckily, upgrading or changing your business activity after you’ve registered your trade licence is entirely possible. The key is knowing the right process and which authority to approach.

Here’s a clear, step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process of amending your business activity in the UAE, whether you’re in the mainland or a free zone.

1. Identify Your Licensing Authority

Your first step is determining which authority issued your trade licence:

• Mainland Companies → Department of Economic Development (DED) of your emirate (e.g. Dubai DED, Abu Dhabi DED).

• Free Zone Companies → The Free Zone Authority where your business is registered (e.g. DMCC, IFZA, RAKEZ).

2. Review Permitted Business Activities

Not all business activities can be combined under one licence. Before you apply, check:

• If your new activity is compatible with your current licence type.

• Whether you need to switch licence type (e.g. Professional → Commercial).

Most DEDs and Free Zones publish a list of approved activities online. If you’re unsure, it’s best to seek advice from a business setup consultant who can guide you.

3. Prepare and Submit the Required Documents

Typical paperwork includes:

• Application form for licence amendment

• Shareholder or Board Resolution (for Free Zone companies or LLCs)

• Updated Memorandum of Association (MOA) if the change affects your mainland company’s nature of business

• Copy of existing trade licence

• Passport and Emirates ID copies of all partners/owners

4. Pay the Applicable Fees

The cost depends on:

• The number and type of activities being added or removed

• Whether your licence classification changes

• Additional publication or amendment fees (in some jurisdictions)

5. Update Your Office Lease (If Needed)

Certain activities may require a different type of office space. For example, moving from consultancy to manufacturing may require an industrial space. You might need an updated tenancy contract or Ejari to proceed.

6. Receive Your Updated Trade Licence

Once your application is approved and fees are settled, you’ll receive a new version of your trade licence showing the updated business activity.

Important Notes to Keep in Mind

• Special approvals: Activities like healthcare, education, or financial services need clearance from external regulators.

• Mainland rules: Major changes often require notarisation of the updated MOA.

• Free zone flexibility: Each free zone has different rules, always confirm directly with your authority.

Changing or upgrading your UAE trade licence is a natural part of business growth. With the right guidance, it’s a smooth process that opens the door to new opportunities and markets.

At Luxe Incorporations, we’re here to help you every step of the way, from identifying the right activities to handling approvals and paperwork. Think of us as your partner in making business setup and expansion in the UAE as seamless as possible.

Ready to upgrade your trade licence? Get in touch with our team today, and let’s make it happen.

Jenna Jenkins is Managing Director at Luxe Incorporations.
[email protected]
+971 4 410 7278